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Openings

Prospective Graduate Students

Two funded graduate research assistantships are currently available for highly motivated students interested in structural bioinformatics. Successful applicants will become founding members of a dynamic and well-rounded team of scientists developing next-generation computational methods for studying molecular structure and function. Areas of current interest include, but are not limited to, algorithms for the analysis of protein-ligand and protein-protein interactions and protein function annotation.

Individuals with backgrounds in structural, computational, or molecular biology, computational geometry, high performance computing, biophysics, or statistics are especially encouraged to apply. Regardless of background training, however, the most important prerequisites for success are curiosity and motivation. With these qualities, anything is possible. Without them, nothing is possible.

Successful candidates will have a deep curiosity and interest in the major biomedical problems of our day, and an unflagging motivation to look for the best solution to these problems. I am very willing to train students without significant programming experience (and I have in the past, successfully), and I am also willing to train students without significant biological knowledge (as I also have in the past, successfully - see below). These skills can be learned, but curiosity and motivation cannot.

Details on specific projects and ideas for new projects will be discussed during a phone or on-site visit (if practical). Candidates should contact Brian Chen directly for more information (telephone: (610) 758-4085 email: "Brian's last name" cselehighedu). A CV, a brief statement of research interests, and a letter of recommendation will greatly assist our initial discussion, but all prospective students must ultimately apply to the Department of Computer Science and Engineering

Prospective Undergraduate Researchers

Undergraduate research in bioinformatics is an excellent way to get exposure to careers in academia and biotechnology. Research is also a great way build your resume of accomplishments and positively differentiate yourself in today's historically difficult job market. Neither a long record of courses in biology, computer science, or statistics, nor junior/senior status is necessary to get involved. I have even worked with freshmen (rising sophomores) in the past, very successfully (see my experiences with Drew Bryant and Brad Dodson below). The key to success in undergraduate research is not factual knowledge - which anyone can assemble - but rather motivation and curiosity.

As research developments are always fluid, specific projects will be discussed when you first contact Brian Chen for more information (telephone: (610) 758-4085 email: "my last name" cselehighedu). A transcript and a resume will be important for finding the project that best fits each applicant.